José Miguel Arbonés: “Research can be challenging and requires perseverance”

El investigador del IIS Aragón y del IACS habla en esta entrevista sobre su labor dirigiendo el Grupo ‘ADIPOFAT: Biología del tejido adiposo y complicaciones metabólicas de la obesidad’ (GIIS065) and the challenges they face

José Miguel Arbonés Mainar arrived at IIS Aragón through the Aragonese Institute of Health Sciences (IACS) where he was part of the team since its founding. His passion for discovering and constantly learning led him to dedicate himself to research in the field of health, where he has sought to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and its application to improve people's quality of life. In his research group, ADIPOFAT, study the metabolic phenomena associated with obesity with special interest in diabetes and the fatty liver disease.

What lines of research are being worked on in your group?

We study the causes of adipose tissue dysfunction and metabolic complications related to obesity. We also looked for omics biomarkers that predict the progression of fatty liver disease.

What is the main challenge your research group is currently facing?

The main challenge lies in the complexity of the data generated by omics techniques (technologies aimed at the analysis of groups of molecules) and their integration to identify relevant biomarkers. Individual variability in treatment response and disease progression complicates the identification of predictive biomarkers. Validation of biomarkers in broad clinical populations is crucial for their clinical utility. Sophisticated bioinformatics and statistical analysis along with longitudinal studies and clinical trials are required to advance personalized medicine for obesity and its complications.

What profiles make up your research team? 

Our team is made up of doctors from different specialties (digestive, endocrinology, nutrition, surgery, pathological anatomy, radiology) and specialists in clinical biochemistry, biotechnologists and biologists.

Why should companies bet on research, and specifically, on your group?

Companies should bet on research in general and, especially, in areas such as the study of adipose tissue and its implications in obesity, due to its potential to drive innovation and differentiation in the market. In the case of adipose tissue research, the identification of biomarkers and innovative therapeutic approaches can lead to more effective treatments for obesity, which could differentiate a company in the healthcare sector. In addition, it could position itself as a leader in the field, gain significant market share and improve its Corporate Social Responsibility.  

Advice for someone starting out in healthcare research?

For those new to healthcare research, it is crucial to focus on continuing education to stay up-to-date with scientific and technological advances, as well as seek mentorship within the field for guidance. Additionally, it is essential to develop interpersonal and critical thinking skills, carefully plan research projects, foster collaboration with other researchers, and cultivate persistence and resilience in the face of challenges and failures that may arise along the way. Research can be challenging and requires perseverance.

Image: IACS